This guide to A+ Core Hardware and Operating Systems exam preparation covers the information represented on the tests. The section on core hardware discusses installing, configuring, upgrading, making diagnoses and troubleshooting, as well as preventative maintenance, the mother board, processors, memory, printers, and basic networks. The section on operating systems discusses the basic concepts, installation, configurations, upgrades, diagnosis, networks, and Windows 2000 preventative maintenance. A companion CD-ROM includes self-tests, electronic flashcards, and a searchable version of the text. The authors are consultants and trainers. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)